It would have been difficult (but not impossible) to imagine a sequel that did not include Brooks. Despite the title of the Oscar-winning movie, it’s Brooks’ character, Marlin — the overprotective orange-and-white striped clownfish who must overcome his own fears to save his son — who provides the animated film’s most recognizable character.

Are you glad to hear there will be a “Finding Nemo 2”? Or do you wish Hollywood would just leave a good thing alone?

The deal was first reported by Deadline.com. A representative at Disney said Pixar would not discuss its production. A representative for Brooks did not return a phone call seeking comment by the time this story was posted online.

As for Brooks himself, his Twitter feed has been mum on the issue. But he did have this to say about the winter storm that rolled over the East Coast last weekend:

Brooks’ decision to sign on for the sequel means that much of the creative talent behind the first movie will remain intact for “Finding Nemo 2,” slated for release in 2016.

Director Andrew Stanton will be back for Round 2, as will Ellen DeGeneres. She voiced the forgetful Dory, who joined Marlin on the stunning underwater adventure to find Nemo.

“Finding Nemo,” was a worldwide sensation after its 2003 release, making more than $920 million at the box office, according to Box Office Mojo. It was nominated for four Oscars, including best animated film, an honor it handily won.

Beyond that, it’s a wildly popular DVD, it’s spawned endless toys, and it’s been named by the American Film Institute as one of the 10 best animated films of all time.